All aboard

a phrase the conductor yells before the train leaves a station, to inform passengers to board for departure.

Berth

a comfortable built-in bed located in sleeping car rooms.

Caboose

the last car on the train, one with eating and sleeping quarters for the crew.

Cowcatcher

a triangular frame built onto the front of a train that removes objects from the tracks.

Gandy dancer

term used to describe railroad track workers who were known for creating and singing songs while they worked. 

Hopper

a freight train car with an open top and door in the floor to allow for materials to be easily loaded and unloaded.

Roundhouse

a circular building, containing a turntable, that houses locomotives while they are being serviced or repaired.

Spike

a large metal fastener, resembling a nail, that is used to hold railroad cross ties and tracks in place.

Third rail

an additional rail that supplies high–voltage power to an electric train.

Wigwag

a type of warning signal that uses a disk, which usually hangs straight down, that swings from side to side and flashes a light when a train approaches.